Kihei Tours: Your Ultimate Guide to Haleakala Park’s Hidden Gems

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Update Icon May 13, 2023

Discover limitless adventure that Kihei tours have in store for you. This stunning corner of the archipelago offers something worthy for every level of adventurer. Learn about Haleakala National Park, and find more tips for exploring the area! 

Photo by James Wheeler on Pexels

Adventure Awaits: Nature Tours in Kihei

As the sun rises over the summit of Haleakala, you can feel the thrill of adventure calling your name. From the soaring vistas of the park’s highest peaks to the lush valleys and forests below, Haleakala National Park offers an outdoor playground unlike any other. And for those looking for the ultimate outdoor adventure tours – Kihei, Hawaii is the perfect base camp!

At Rent By Owner, we’re passionate about connecting travelers with the best vacation rentals in top destinations around the world. That’s why we’re excited to share this guide that explores the thrilling outdoors of Haleakala National Park in Kihei. If an exhilarating hike, a heart-pumping zipline adventure, or a peaceful stroll through nature is your cup of tea, this stunning corner of Hawaii is the hot pot where you should brew your next vacation plans.

In this blog post, we’ll introduce you to the best Kihei tours and activities at Haleakala National Park, from hiking to surfing and everything in between. We’ll also highlight some of the best Kihei adventure tours available, including thrilling zipline rides and scenic horseback rides. Plus, we’ll provide tips for visiting the park and how you can find or list your perfect vacation home in Kihei through Rent By Owner.

Join us on this thrilling adventure through the outdoors of Haleakala National Park and Kihei, and discover why this destination is a must-visit for any adventurous traveler!


From Depths to Peaks: Popular Nature Activities on Kihei Tours

New experiences, venturing off the main path, and traveling like a local were the three most common goals of adventure travelers, according to the 2022 report published by the Adventure Travel Trade Association. In many Kihei tours, there are a variety of outdoor activities that cater to all levels of thrillseekers. The area boasts some of the best beaches in Hawaii, where visitors can snorkel, surf, or simply relax and soak up the sun!

Snorkeling

For those who prefer to explore the underwater world, Kihei is home to some of the best snorkeling spots in Hawaii, with crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life. Molokini Crater and Turtle Town are two of the most popular snorkeling destinations in the area we dare you to visit.

Surfing

For adrenaline junkies, surfing is a must-try activity, with plenty of surf schools and rental shops available in the area. Lessons are available for all levels, from first-time surfers to experienced wave riders. Novice surfers can take lessons with seasoned instructors to learn the basics, while more advanced surfers can set their sights on larger swells.

Whale watching

From December to May, humpback whales migrate to the waters around Maui, making it a prime destination for whale watching. Kihei tours via boat rides are also available, giving you a chance to see these magnificent creatures up close.

Photo by Gerard Whelan on Pexels

Hiking

Of course, Kihei excursions extend far beyond the beaches. Hiking is also a popular activity in Kihei, with numerous trails to explore. The Waihou Spring Trail is a favorite among locals, featuring a short but scenic hike that ends at a refreshing natural pool. 

Another popular hiking destination is the Makawao Forest Reserve, which boasts over 4,000 acres of stunning landscapes and hiking trails!

Ziplining

Soar through lush tropical forests, catch glimpses of stunning ocean views, and immerse yourself in Maui’s unique ecosystem through ziplining! This adrenaline-pumping adventure is available through tours offered by agencies such as Flyin Hawaiian Zipline and Maui Zipline Company. With diverse tour options and expert guides, ziplining will surely leave you with unforgettable island memories.

But the real highlight for any outdoor adventurer in this area is the Haleakala National Park. 


Kihei Tours Top Attraction: Haleakala National Park

Home to Maui’s highest peak, which stands at over 10,000 feet, Haleakala National Park is a stunning natural wonder that boasts over 30,000 acres of pristine wilderness. Established as a national park in 1916, it is one of the oldest in all of the United States.

Fun fact: the park is named Haleakala, which means “house of the sun” in Hawaiian. It was believed to be the place where the demigod Maui captured the sun to slow its journey across the sky. Today, visitors can witness spectacular sunrises and sunsets from several viewing points along the trails.

Photo by Kameron Kincade on Unsplash

Aside from its scenic beauty and cultural significance, Haleakala is also home to unique flora and fauna. Several endangered species, such as the Hawaiian goose (nene) and the Haleakala silversword–a rare plant that only grows in the park’s volcanic soil, can only be found in this corner of the world.

To fully capture Haleakala’s natural beauty, one of the most popular activities in Haleakala is hiking. The Sliding Sands Trail is a challenging hike that takes visitors through the park’s volcanic crater, offering stunning views of the otherworldly landscape. For an easier hike, the Hosmer Grove Trail is a great option, taking visitors through a forest of eucalyptus and pine trees.

The park offers several adventure tours for those seeking an adrenaline rush. Ziplining is a popular activity in the park, providing breathtaking views of the lush forest canopy. Horseback riding tours are also available, taking visitors through the park’s rugged terrain and offering a unique perspective of the landscape. Cycling tours are also available, allowing visitors to explore the park’s scenic trails at their own pace.

Tips for Exploring Haleakala National Park

When visiting Haleakala National Park, it’s essential to prepare for the park’s unique environment and erratic conditions. 

Here are some tips to help you make the most of your Kihei tours and excursions to Haleakala National Park:

  1. Dress in layers: The park’s high elevation means that temperatures can be much cooler than at sea level. Dressing in layers will help you stay comfortable as you explore the park.
  1. Bring plenty of water and snacks: The park’s trails can be challenging. So, it’s essential to stay hydrated and fueled throughout your visit. Bring plenty of water and snacks to keep you going.
  1. Wear comfortable shoes: The park’s trails can be uneven and rocky. Wearing comfortable, sturdy shoes with good traction is also essential. Trail running shoes are a wiser choice than sandals when exploring the higher elevation summit area, where cooler temperatures prevail.
  1. Plan your visit ahead: Haleakala National Park is a popular destination, and its limited parking can fill up quickly. Consider arriving early to avoid the crowds and secure a parking spot easily.
  1. Follow park rules: Haleakala National Park is a protected area. Following park rules to help preserve the park’s natural beauty is important. Stay on designated trails, pack out all trash, and be respectful of the park’s wildlife.
  1. Pack extra clothes: You may get dirty or wet while exploring the park, so packing a change of clothes is essential. Keep in mind that weather conditions can shift rapidly and unexpectedly, so it’s essential to be ready for any situation!
  1. Bring sun protection: The park’s high elevation means that the sun’s rays can be stronger than at sea level. Bring an ample supply of sunblock, hats, and sunglasses to protect yourself and your family from the sun’s harmful rays.
  1. Check pet regulations: Pets are allowed in some areas of the park but not in others. Check the park’s pet regulations ahead of time to plan accordingly if you plan to hike with your active pet.

Experience Kihei’s Thrilling Outdoors with Rent By Owner’s Vacation Rentals

When it comes to booking vacation rentals in Kihei, don’t settle for less. 

Rent By Owner is your go-to source for vacation homes that cater to all types of travelers, from families to solo backpackers. Each of our properties is unique, with its own set of features, amenities, and proximity to popular attractions in Kihei.

Our vacation rental properties in Kihei come in various sizes and styles, ranging from cozy beachfront condos to spacious luxury homes. Many of our properties offer fantastic amenities, such as private pools, hot tubs, BBQ areas, and fully equipped kitchens, allowing guests to make the most of their stay. Take this oceanfront penthouse as an example!

Photo Credit: Oceanfront Penthouse | Condo in Kihei

As an UpNext travel brand, Rent By Owner provides access to vacation rental options near Kihei’s thrilling outdoors. Our easy-to-use filters allow travelers to compare prices, find vacation homes directly, and view thousands of listings for the best rates. With us, you can rest assured that you’re getting the best value for your money.

For property owners, listing a property on Rent By Owner can help you reach a wider audience and maximize revenue potential. Our virtual property management service also provides remote management, 24/7 support, and increased revenue potential. We make it easier than ever for property owners to manage their vacation rental properties. 

With Rent By Owner, property owners can take advantage of a global network of travelers looking for their home away from home. 

Start planning your trip at www.rentbyowner.com to enjoy the convenience, value, and personalized service our platform provides.


TLDR

Experience the best of Kihei tours and outdoor adventures with Rent By Owner’s vacation rentals. From snorkeling and surfing to peaceful hikes and scenic tours, Kihei tours and excursions cater to all levels of adventurers. 

Make the most of your visit to Haleakala National Park with our tips for exploring its unique environment and conditions. And for the ultimate vacation experience in Kihei, plan with us for various rental sizes and styles with fantastic amenities. Don’t settle for less, visit www.rentbyowner.com for personalized, data-driven rental options near Kihei’s thrilling outdoors.

Featured Image Credit: NOAA on Unsplash